Genetic and epigenetic changes are crucial in activating invasion and metastasis: 1. Oncogenes and Tumor Suppressors: Mutations in oncogenes (e.g., RAS, MYC) and tumor suppressors (e.g., TP53, RB1) can promote the invasive and metastatic potential of cancer cells. 2. Epigenetic Modifications: Changes in DNA methylation and histone modification can regulate the expression of genes involved in invasion and metastasis, affecting cell adhesion, migration, and ECM degradation.
